There’s a reason why millions of people visit Rome every single day, the allure to experience this culturally rich, effortlessly fashionable city is an undeniable force. My first visit was quick, incredibly special and one that I will never forget and I could not possibly have stayed in a more perfect choice from all the five star hotels in Rome than Hotel de Russie.

Named Top Hotel in Rome this year, we found five-star Hotel de Russie to be luxurious and charming. Image © Pat Bailey
The Best of the Five-Star Hotels in Rome
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Awarded by Travel and Leisure the distinction of “The Top Hotel in Rome” for 2017, Hotel de Russie is one of eleven boutique luxury properties in the Rocco Forte Hotel group. Hotel de Russie is joined by sister hotels in Edinburgh, London, Brussels, Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Florence, Sicily, St. Petersburg and Jeddah. Each property has its own flair and personality, but there is a common thread of distinct appreciation for the cities they host visitors in and a beautiful blending of old and new, creating the ideal opportunity for guests to have an authentic experience in each city.
There are 88 rooms, and 33 suites to choose from at Hotel de Russie. Each decorated in a classic, contemporary style with the help of designer Olga Polizzi, whose whimsical touches and attention-to-detail keep your heart light and make you feel right at home. Four of the suites are themed and very special, including The Picasso Suite, paying homage to the eccentric painter who stayed at Hotel de Russie for three months in 1917.

Light floods in, hitting the incredible decorative citrus accents in a gorgeous suite at Hotel de Russie, Rome. Image © Pat Bailey

The Roman style marble bathroom at Hotel de Russie, Rome. Image © Pat Bailey

History and style come together in the stunning suites at Hotel de Russie, Rome. Image © Pat Bailey

Pat Bailey feeling very at home in her suite at Hotel de Russie Rome, Italy. Image © Pat Bailey
Every room and suite has a generous offering of space and amenities with the deliberate invitation for it to feel like it is your home away from home. My Classic Suite was no exception, the 65 square metre suite felt like home the moment I checked in and it was hard to leave, even with the city calling me from my window. The Roman-style mosaic marble bathroom, generous king-sized bed, adjoining seating and in-room dining area were appreciated luxuries. I was welcomed with a beautiful array of ingredients to enjoy a “make it yours” aperitif, and accompanying snacks.

Beautiful selection of welcome drinks at snacks at Hotel de Russie, Rome, Italy. Image © Pat Bailey
Fine Dining in a Secret Garden
The secluded courtyard terrace nestled on the property of Hotel de Russie is a destination not only for out-of-town visitors, but for Roman locals alike. It feels like discovering a secret piazza when you step into it for the first time, which is one of the many reasons why celebrities are drawn to this special hotel in Rome. This private piazza is home to Stravinskij Bar, and just beyond, the fine dining experience of Le Jardin de Russie on an upper terrace on the skirts of the secret garden on property.

The gorgeous Le Jardin de Russie at Hotel de Russie offers fine dining in the hotel’s secret garden setting. Image © Pat Bailey
Both offer a delicious alfresco experience with a feast appeasing all five senses. The garden scents of rose, orange blossom and fresh boxwood greens surround you and shut the bustling city out. Locals and visitors from around the world provide great people watching as guests linger, locals meet and network, and even small business gatherings take place in this space. It is quiet and private during the day and softly animated in the evening.

Delicious food at Le Jardin de Russie at Hotel de Russie Rome, Italy. Image © Pat Bailey
I enjoyed this cool respite very much during my stay in Rome. The midday and early afternoon light lunches and aperitif were a great way to recharge before adventuring out. Each morning’s breakfast at Le Jardin de Russie was my favourite because my table overlooked the secret garden and I felt like a princess in her very own Roman castle.

Aperitifs al fresco style at the Stravinskij Bar, Hotel de Russie, Rome, Italy. Image © Pat Bailey
Dinner at Le Jardin de Russie is a reminder that the simplest ingredients are all that you need to create beautiful classic Italian dishes. Celebrity Chef and Director of Food Fulvio Pierangelini and his Executive Chef Nazzareno Menghini have mastered the art of discerning simplicity in their menu offerings here. The Ravioli “Cacio e Pepe” a Roman specialty, was my absolute favourite.
